11.5 Zero Waste


The first thought I had when watching this video of Lauren Singer's transition to a Zero Waste lifestyle was, " Wow, is this lifestyle really possible?!" I was in awe and inspired by how she aligned her values with her daily lifestyle in such an incredible way. This young woman fit all her trash from 3 years in a medium sized MASON JAR. I loved this ted talk because I started considering how much plastic I use in my daily life, similar to many Americans, it is a lot. We use an average of 4.4 pounds of trash per person per day.  Although, it hurts to say that I am still doing my share of sending plastic to landfill because I buy most personal products. However, I am more conscientious of reducing the plastic I use since watching the video.

 Second, I started considering what I could make that I could try out. I definitely do not see myself using baking soda as toothpaste but, I do see myself bringing my own reusable bags everywhere, bringing my own produce bags, and maybe even buying from the bulk section of grains and nuts. That seems feasible and as a person who already eats a mostly plant based diet it will help me reduce buying packaged foods. I can see that happening now. I've also been actively reducing the amount of plastic I drink out of by taking my stainless steel water bottle everywhere I go. I am moving towards a minimalist lifestyle of living and this just further confirms and shows me there is more I can (try) to do for the environment and save money.

Lastly, living in direct alignment with one's values is the key to happiness. Watching this ted talk and watching Bea Johnson's family of four live a zero waste lifestyle is simply amazing and gives me hope that a more sustainable environment is truly not impossible.


Comments

  1. Krissy PamatmatNovember 21, 2017 at 8:52 AM

    Hi Mayra,

    I felt the same way when I watched the video. I couldn't believe that someone is actually living a zero waste lifestyle. I also realized that I used so much plastic products. I think because we are so used to using products like toothpaste which is in a plastic container that we don't really think about the accumulation of plastic waste. In addition to great ideas on living a zero waste lifestyle, I think this video is also spreading awareness about the current problem with plastic waste. I hope more people can watch and learn from this video. Also, I think the steps that you have taken and currently taking towards living a minimalist lifestyle is great!

    - Krissy

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